In a stunning turn of events just hours before puck drop, the Montreal Canadiens’ lineup for tonight’s crucial matchup remains shrouded in uncertainty. Head coach Martin St-Louis addressed the media in a tense press conference, refusing to confirm the status of key players Patrik Laine and Arber Xhekaj, leaving fans and analysts alike on edge.

Contrary to earlier reports that seemed to rule out Laine, St-Louis hinted that the star winger could still suit up, throwing the pre-game narrative into chaos. Meanwhile, Xhekaj’s extended time on the ice after practice has sparked speculation that he may be a healthy scratch, despite mounting calls for his return.

The air of suspense and last-minute decision-making has ignited a wave of anticipation and anxiety throughout Montreal, as supporters anxiously await final word on the lineup. With so much at stake in this pivotal game, every detail is under the microscope, and St-Louis’s cryptic comments have only deepened the intrigue. As the Bell Centre prepares to host a high-stakes showdown, all eyes will be glued to the ice during warmups for the answers everyone is desperately seeking.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We have several updates to report following the press conference by Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St-Louis.

First of all, despite some circulating reports, Patrik Laine “could” play tonight.

Some had already confirmed that Patrik Laine would not play this evening – but not so fast!

During the press conference just minutes ago, Martin St-Louis stated that some players are “game-time decisions,” and more importantly, he mentioned that Laine “could” play tonight.

Laine’s removal from the lineup is absolutely not confirmed.

Martin St-Louis Announces Total Turnaround for Patrik Laine, and the News Isn’t Good for Arber Xhekaj

Many had also suggested that Xhekaj would be in the lineup tonight, but again, Martin St-Louis refused to confirm anything.

Not only did he avoid confirming that, but there’s also this:

Xhekaj stayed on the ice for extra time with Michael Pezzetta. That’s usually a strong sign that the player will be scratched from the lineup.

So it’s something to keep an eye on, but just know that, contrary to what everyone believed just minutes ago, Patrik Laine could still be in the lineup tonight.

This is a dramatic twist in this whole situation.

Also note that early indications suggest Arber Xhekaj will not be in uniform tonight, but once again, Martin St-Louis could not confirm anything.

Watch his full press conference here:

This isn’t the news we were hoping for this morning, especially regarding Xhekaj, but nothing is set in stone.

Be sure to pay close attention during warmups tonight.

More details to follow.